In trading Kendrick Perkins this season, Danny Ainge took a gamble and bet the Boston Celtics' playoff hopes on the continued health and productivity of aging former All-Stars Shaquille O'Neal and Jermaine O'Neal.

As NBA fans learned last week, the gamble didn't pay off. Not even close.

With the June 23 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics have their first chance to begin the rebuilding process.

Given Shaquille's likely retirement, and Jermaine only expected to play one or two more meaningful seasons, the Celtics will need to draft a big man to fill their gaping hole in the middle.

Although the Celtics will be drafting very late in the draft—holding the 25th and 55th picks—the opportunity still exists to secure a young big capable of contributing from Day One.

5. Keith Benson

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

The Maryland big man has the potential to add much-needed athleticism to the Celtics front line.

Benson is capable of running in the open court, and finishing the alley-oop pass. Benson is also able to use his impressive 7'2" wingspan to shoot over defenders, particularly in the mid-range.

His potential as a 'pick and pop' player could see Benson used in the style of a more athletic Jermaine O'Neal.

With Rajon Rondo's ability to drive to the lane and kick to the open man, Benson would make a good fit for the Celtics offense.

4. Nikola Vucevic

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

Vucevic is another big man with the ability to shoot the ball.

Although not as athletic as Benson, Vucevic's range extends all the way out to the three-point line. He averaged just under a three a game last season at a decent enough rate (34.9 percent) to keep opposing defenders honest.

His defense is still mediocre at best, but the Celtics defensive system has shown itself very capable of covering up individual defensive blemishes.

If selected by the Celtics, Vucevic could play a role similar to that of Rasheed Wallace in 2010—a big man capable of spacing out the defense.

3. Jordan Williams

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Although officially listed as a power forward, Williams' 260 pounds gives him the size and strength to clog the middle like a center.

Williams is much more of a banger than Vucevic or Benson, which is understandable given his frame and physique.

Not blessed with their speed or shooting skills, Williams adds value through crashing the boards...both offensive and defensive.

Williams may not be a cure for the Celtics' offensive woes, but his size and rebounding would be a nice start in filling the vacuum that will be left with the departure of the O'Neals.

2. Lucas Nogueira

One of the most intriguing prospects in this year's draft, Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira would be the Celtics' most risky draft choice.

The young Brazilian is a shot-blocking natural, combining excellent speed and timing. He runs like a gazelle on the fast break, and he can finish with a variety of dunks.

However, despite standing seven foot tall, with a 7'6" wingspan, questions still remain about Nogueira's ability to put on the weight that would be required for him to play at the NBA level.

He remains raw and a long-term investment, but he could develop into an intimidating presence in the middle for the Celtics.

If the Celtics have the patience to nurture his development, as they did with Kendrick Perkins, the return could exceed everyone's expectations.

1. Bismack Biyombo

There are a number of things all NBA scouts agree on with regard to Congolese baller Bismack Biyombo.

He blocks. He rebounds. And he boasts a wingspan (7'7") that is almost a foot longer than his actual height (6'9"). This perfect defensive combination could be just what the Doctor ordered to fix the Celtics' soon-to-be-hollow frontline.

However, there remains a number of things regarding Biyombo upon which scouts cannot agree.

The first question is his age. Estimates range from 18 to 22. While this could scare off some teams, the Celtics' demonstrated love of veteran players indicates that this would not be an issue for them.

The other question mark hovering over Biyombo, though, is how high he will be drafted. Mock drafts have him projected anywhere from mid-lottery to late in the first round. As such, the Celtics may not even get within sniffing distance of Biyombo anyway.

However, if teams' fears regarding his age see him fall in the draft and the Celtics are able to nab him in the late first round, they could find themselves with an immediate impact player.

His toughness, tenacity on defense and athleticism would make him the perfect fit for the league's stingiest defensive team.

4. Nikola Vucevic

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

Vucevic is another big man with the ability to shoot the ball.

Although not as athletic as Benson, Vucevic's range extends all the way out to the three-point line. He averaged just under a three a game last season at a decent enough rate (34.9 percent) to keep opposing defenders honest.

His defense is still mediocre at best, but the Celtics defensive system has shown itself very capable of covering up individual defensive blemishes.

If selected by the Celtics, Vucevic could play a role similar to that of Rasheed Wallace in 2010—a big man capable of spacing out the defense.

3. Jordan Williams

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Although officially listed as a power forward, Williams' 260 pounds gives him the size and strength to clog the middle like a center.

Williams is much more of a banger than Vucevic or Benson, which is understandable given his frame and physique.

Not blessed with their speed or shooting skills, Williams adds value through crashing the boards...both offensive and defensive.

Williams may not be a cure for the Celtics' offensive woes, but his size and rebounding would be a nice start in filling the vacuum that will be left with the departure of the O'Neals.

2. Lucas Nogueira

One of the most intriguing prospects in this year's draft, Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira would be the Celtics' most risky draft choice.

The young Brazilian is a shot-blocking natural, combining excellent speed and timing. He runs like a gazelle on the fast break, and he can finish with a variety of dunks.

However, despite standing seven foot tall, with a 7'6" wingspan, questions still remain about Nogueira's ability to put on the weight that would be required for him to play at the NBA level.

He remains raw and a long-term investment, but he could develop into an intimidating presence in the middle for the Celtics.

If the Celtics have the patience to nurture his development, as they did with Kendrick Perkins, the return could exceed everyone's expectations.

Elsa/Getty Images

In trading Kendrick Perkins this season, Danny Ainge took a gamble and bet the Boston Celtics' playoff hopes on the continued health and productivity of aging former All-Stars Shaquille O'Neal and Jermaine O'Neal.

As NBA fans learned last week, the gamble didn't pay off. Not even close.

With the June 23 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics have their first chance to begin the rebuilding process.

Given Shaquille's likely retirement, and Jermaine only expected to play one or two more meaningful seasons, the Celtics will need to draft a big man to fill their gaping hole in the middle.

Although the Celtics will be drafting very late in the draft—holding the 25th and 55th picks—the opportunity still exists to secure a young big capable of contributing from Day One.

5. Keith Benson

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

The Maryland big man has the potential to add much-needed athleticism to the Celtics front line.

Benson is capable of running in the open court, and finishing the alley-oop pass. Benson is also able to use his impressive 7'2" wingspan to shoot over defenders, particularly in the mid-range.

His potential as a 'pick and pop' player could see Benson used in the style of a more athletic Jermaine O'Neal.

With Rajon Rondo's ability to drive to the lane and kick to the open man, Benson would make a good fit for the Celtics offense.

4. Nikola Vucevic

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

Vucevic is another big man with the ability to shoot the ball.

Although not as athletic as Benson, Vucevic's range extends all the way out to the three-point line. He averaged just under a three a game last season at a decent enough rate (34.9 percent) to keep opposing defenders honest.

His defense is still mediocre at best, but the Celtics defensive system has shown itself very capable of covering up individual defensive blemishes.

If selected by the Celtics, Vucevic could play a role similar to that of Rasheed Wallace in 2010—a big man capable of spacing out the defense.

3. Jordan Williams

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Although officially listed as a power forward, Williams' 260 pounds gives him the size and strength to clog the middle like a center.

Williams is much more of a banger than Vucevic or Benson, which is understandable given his frame and physique.

Not blessed with their speed or shooting skills, Williams adds value through crashing the boards...both offensive and defensive.

Williams may not be a cure for the Celtics' offensive woes, but his size and rebounding would be a nice start in filling the vacuum that will be left with the departure of the O'Neals.

2. Lucas Nogueira

One of the most intriguing prospects in this year's draft, Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira would be the Celtics' most risky draft choice.

The young Brazilian is a shot-blocking natural, combining excellent speed and timing. He runs like a gazelle on the fast break, and he can finish with a variety of dunks.

However, despite standing seven foot tall, with a 7'6" wingspan, questions still remain about Nogueira's ability to put on the weight that would be required for him to play at the NBA level.

He remains raw and a long-term investment, but he could develop into an intimidating presence in the middle for the Celtics.

If the Celtics have the patience to nurture his development, as they did with Kendrick Perkins, the return could exceed everyone's expectations.

1. Bismack Biyombo

There are a number of things all NBA scouts agree on with regard to Congolese baller Bismack Biyombo.

He blocks. He rebounds. And he boasts a wingspan (7'7") that is almost a foot longer than his actual height (6'9"). This perfect defensive combination could be just what the Doctor ordered to fix the Celtics' soon-to-be-hollow frontline.

However, there remains a number of things regarding Biyombo upon which scouts cannot agree.

The first question is his age. Estimates range from 18 to 22. While this could scare off some teams, the Celtics' demonstrated love of veteran players indicates that this would not be an issue for them.

The other question mark hovering over Biyombo, though, is how high he will be drafted. Mock drafts have him projected anywhere from mid-lottery to late in the first round. As such, the Celtics may not even get within sniffing distance of Biyombo anyway.

However, if teams' fears regarding his age see him fall in the draft and the Celtics are able to nab him in the late first round, they could find themselves with an immediate impact player.

His toughness, tenacity on defense and athleticism would make him the perfect fit for the league's stingiest defensive team.

Both are athletic, can rebound, block shots, run the floor, and score. Johnson as a backup PF/C can provide the length and athleticism of a young KG, and Wafer has underappreciated skills that are probably on par with Jamal Crawford if given the opportunity to showcase them. Can you imagine a second unit with these two plus Bradley, Green, and West (or maybe Kristic)? Greyhounds!

4. Nikola Vucevic Stephen Dunn/Getty Images Vucevic is another big man with the ability to shoot the ball. Although not as athletic as Benson, Vucevic's range extends all the way out to the three-point line. He averaged just under a three a game last season at a decent enough rate (34.9 percent) to keep opposing defenders honest. His defense is still mediocre at best, but the Celtics defensive system has shown itself very capable of covering up individual defensive blemishes. If selected by the Celtics, Vucevic could play a role similar to that of Rasheed Wallace in 2010—a big man capable of spacing out the defense. 3. Jordan Williams Streeter Lecka/Getty Images Although officially listed as a power forward, Williams' 260 pounds gives him the size and strength to clog the middle like a center. Williams is much more of a banger than Vucevic or Benson, which is understandable given his frame and physique. Not blessed with their speed or shooting skills, Williams adds value through crashing the boards...both offensive and defensive. Williams may not be a cure for the Celtics' offensive woes, but his size and rebounding would be a nice start in filling the vacuum that will be left with the departure of the O'Neals. 2. Lucas Nogueira One of the most intriguing prospects in this year's draft, Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira would be the Celtics' most risky draft choice. The young Brazilian is a shot-blocking natural, combining excellent speed and timing. He runs like a gazelle on the fast break, and he can finish with a variety of dunks. However, despite standing seven foot tall, with a 7'6" wingspan, questions still remain about Nogueira's ability to put on the weight that would be required for him to play at the NBA level. He remains raw and a long-term investment, but he could develop into an intimidating presence in the middle for the Celtics. If the Celtics have the patience to nurture his development, as they did with Kendrick Perkins, the return could exceed everyone's expectations. Elsa/Getty Images In trading Kendrick Perkins this season, Danny Ainge took a gamble and bet the Boston Celtics ' playoff hopes on the continued health and productivity of aging former All-Stars Shaquille O'Neal and Jermaine O'Neal. As NBA fans learned last week, the gamble didn't pay off. Not even close. With the June 23 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics have their first chance to begin the rebuilding process. Given Shaquille's likely retirement, and Jermaine only expected to play one or two more meaningful seasons, the Celtics will need to draft a big man to fill their gaping hole in the middle. Although the Celtics will be drafting very late in the draft—holding the 25th and 55th picks—the opportunity still exists to secure a young big capable of contributing from Day One. 5. Keith Benson Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images The Maryland big man has the potential to add much-needed athleticism to the Celtics front line. Benson is capable of running in the open court, and finishing the alley-oop pass. Benson is also able to use his impressive 7'2" wingspan to shoot over defenders, particularly in the mid-range. His potential as a 'pick and pop' player could see Benson used in the style of a more athletic Jermaine O'Neal. With Rajon Rondo's ability to drive to the lane and kick to the open man, Benson would make a good fit for the Celtics offense. 4. Nikola Vucevic Stephen Dunn/Getty Images Vucevic is another big man with the ability to shoot the ball. Although not as athletic as Benson, Vucevic's range extends all the way out to the three-point line. He averaged just under a three a game last season at a decent enough rate (34.9 percent) to keep opposing defenders honest. His defense is still mediocre at best, but the Celtics defensive system has shown itself very capable of covering up individual defensive blemishes. If selected by the Celtics, Vucevic could play a role similar to that of Rasheed Wallace in 2010—a big man capable of spacing out the defense. 3. Jordan Williams Streeter Lecka/Getty Images Although officially listed as a power forward, Williams' 260 pounds gives him the size and strength to clog the middle like a center. Williams is much more of a banger than Vucevic or Benson, which is understandable given his frame and physique. Not blessed with their speed or shooting skills, Williams adds value through crashing the boards...both offensive and defensive. Williams may not be a cure for the Celtics' offensive woes, but his size and rebounding would be a nice start in filling the vacuum that will be left with the departure of the O'Neals. 2. Lucas Nogueira One of the most intriguing prospects in this year's draft, Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira would be the Celtics' most risky draft choice. The young Brazilian is a shot-blocking natural, combining excellent speed and timing. He runs like a gazelle on the fast break, and he can finish with a variety of dunks. However, despite standing seven foot tall, with a 7'6" wingspan, questions still remain about Nogueira's ability to put on the weight that would be required for him to play at the NBA level. He remains raw and a long-term investment, but he could develop into an intimidating presence in the middle for the Celtics. If the Celtics have the patience to nurture his development, as they did with Kendrick Perkins, the return could exceed everyone's expectations. 1. Bismack Biyombo There are a number of things all NBA scouts agree on with regard to Congolese baller Bismack Biyombo. He blocks. He rebounds. And he boasts a wingspan (7'7") that is almost a foot longer than his actual height (6'9"). This perfect defensive combination could be just what the Doctor ordered to fix the Celtics' soon-to-be-hollow frontline. However, there remains a number of things regarding Biyombo upon which scouts cannot agree. The first question is his age. Estimates range from 18 to 22. While this could scare off some teams, the Celtics' demonstrated love of veteran players indicates that this would not be an issue for them. The other question mark hovering over Biyombo, though, is how high he will be drafted. Mock drafts have him projected anywhere from mid-lottery to late in the first round. As such, the Celtics may not even get within sniffing distance of Biyombo anyway. However, if teams' fears regarding his age see him fall in the draft and the Celtics are able to nab him in the late first round, they could find themselves with an immediate impact player. His toughness, tenacity on defense and athleticism would make him the perfect fit for the league's stingiest defensive team.Posted by guyfromtex

They are all projects at best, none of them come in and play right away and if they do play right away that means some really bad play.

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : They are all projects at best, none of them come in and play right away and if they do play right away that means some really bad play.Posted by TheDUDDER

Due to Danny Ainge's neglect Boston has no choice. Ainge should have started rebuilding the Celtics the second Ray Allen and KG became Celtics. I first posted this two years ago. My argument was that the new guys would have time to develop under the tutelage of the three Hall of Famers. There would have been a near seamless transition. Ainge blew it with his poor draft picks and bad trades. One can only imagine how Deandre Jordan would be now having worked with KG and Clifford Ray or how James Anderson would have developed working with Ray Allen and Paul Pierce. Sure Anderson got injured in his first season with the Spurs but just the same I may very well have avoided a devastating car accident if I hadn't taken the time to type this post.

Somebody created a another discussion stating how Boston was supposed to have a 3-year window with the "Big Three" of Ray Allen, KG, and Pierce. We all knew this. That is why I felt so strongly that Ainge needed to have a transition plan. Unless he planned on using the money that would be available after their retirement he didn't plan at all for a transition.

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : Due to Danny Ainge's neglect Boston has no choice. Ainge should have started rebuilding the Celtics the second Ray Allen and KG became Celtics. I first posted this two years ago. My argument was that the new guys would have time to develop under the tutelage of the three Hall of Famers. There would have been a near seamless transition. Ainge blew it with his poor draft picks and bad trades. One can only imagine how Deandre Jordan would be now having worked with KG and Clifford Ray or how James Anderson would have developed working with Ray Allen and Paul Pierce. Sure Anderson got injured in his first season with the Spurs but just the same I may very well have avoided a devastating car accident if I hadn't taken the time to type this post.Posted by guyfromtex

Well I think one could probably find an almost all-star team with guys that Danny passed on. What is amazing to me is that when you are drafting 25th on average you have to draft the absolute best player available regardless of position.

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : Well I think one could probably find an almost all-star team with guys that Danny passed on. What is amazing to me is that when you are drafting 25th on average you have to draft the absolute best player available regardless of position. Danny has passed on Diaw, Varejao, David Lee, Brandon Bass, Monta Ellis, Louis Williams, Blatche, Gortat, Marc Gasol, Arron Gray, Ramon Sessions, Chalmers, D Jordan, and Omar Asik............Posted by TheDUDDER

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : Due to Danny Ainge's neglect Boston has no choice. Ainge should have started rebuilding the Celtics the second Ray Allen and KG became Celtics. I first posted this two years ago. My argument was that the new guys would have time to develop under the tutelage of the three Hall of Famers. There would have been a near seamless transition. Ainge blew it with his poor draft picks and bad trades. One can only imagine how Deandre Jordan would be now having worked with KG and Clifford Ray or how James Anderson would have developed working with Ray Allen and Paul Pierce. Sure Anderson got injured in his first season with the Spurs but just the same I may very well have avoided a devastating car accident if I hadn't taken the time to type this post.Posted by guyfromtex

You're so right about Ainge missing the boat all the way around. With Ainge's decision making, the only boat not missed was the Titanic, and he hit the ice berg flush also. And the media in Boston mostly with owner Grosebeck gives him a free pass-Go figure!

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : It hurts to see that..makes me feel sick...Posted by guyfromtex

Hindsight is 20 20. Neither of the trades to get the BIG 3 together happens without T Ratliff and Wally's expiring contracts. Imagine he didn't have those contracts - we would be cheering for Al Jefferson, Perk, West, T Allen, Orien Greene, Gerald Green, Giddens, Walker, and a whole host of other irrelevant players.

Danny gets great praise for compiling the BIG 3 and I certainly give him credit but I read year after year on this board how Danny is a genius and always gets the steal of the draft and the sleeper and a perennial all-star. Danny has never drafted one all-star but on draft night he rivals Einstein, Hawking, Pythagoras, Newton and a whole bunch of other actual geniuses. Then the dust settles and everyone realizes that the youtube videos are not against guys in the NBA.

I think we should make an all out blitz to pick up Tyson Chandler,he's a veteran in his prime at 28,29 he is an excellent defender,strong rebounder and can run out on the break. When he played with CP3 they led the league in fgs from dunks. The highlights with him and Rondo would be worth it alone

Lucas Noguiera was my original idea. People here said he was too scrawny and he does need to add weight, but you can't teach that wingspan, height, speed, quickness, and vertical leap. He's already a rebounding and block machine simply by virtue of his athletic prowess

Lucas Noguiera was my original idea. People here said he was too scrawny and he does need to add weight, but you can't teach that wingspan, height, speed, quickness, and vertical leap. He's already a rebounding and block machine simply by virtue of his athletic prowess But I submit another idea: MAMADOU DIARRA http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Mamadou-Diarra-1141/http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft/results/players/_/id/19675/mamadou-diarra SEVEN FEET TWO HUNDRED EIGHTY FIVE POUNDS We can teach him what he needs to know. He already has NBA size and because he barely played he might go undrafted (or late into the second round)Posted by Artist-Frmrly-Knwn-As-NickC1188

So in five years he will be Motumbo...... I wonder how the chemsitry between KG, PP, and Ray will be with him.... oh wait, they will all be retired.....

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : So in five years he will be Motumbo...... I wonder how the chemsitry between KG, PP, and Ray will be with him.... oh wait, they will all be retired.....Posted by TheDUDDER

If he goes UNDRAFTED, I don't see how you can lose taking a flyer on him

I see him as this year's potential Andrew Bynum, a guy with little background who has a lot of potential if you're willing to develop it

And yes, I think it might be a good idea to stash a project at the end of the bench if said project is 7-0 285 and can already play defense, block, and rebound

Like I said, you can't teach 7-0 285. Instant Shaq/Perk replacement as enforcer in the paint, even before he develops. If he can catch and dunk better than Perk (but probably not as good as Shaq), all the merrier

Especially if he goes undrafted (or late into the second round). Seriously. Almost zero risk and at that point the only opportunity cost is the low draft pick and the roster spot. Maybe rent/stash him in Europe or in the D-League for a year or something if you want all 12-13 roster spots

But I doubt the Celtics will find 12-13 instant contributors. I don't see your point here.

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : If he goes UNDRAFTED, I don't see how you can lose taking a flyer on him I see him as this year's potential Andrew Bynum, a guy with little background who has a lot of potential if you're willing to develop it And yes, I think it might be a good idea to stash a project at the end of the bench if said project is 7-0 285 and can already play defense, block, and rebound Like I said, you can't teach 7-0 285. Instant Shaq/Perk replacement as enforcer in the paint, even before he develops. If he can catch and dunk better than Perk (but probably not as good as Shaq), all the merrier Especially if he goes undrafted (or late into the second round). Seriously. Almost zero risk and at that point the only opportunity cost is the low draft pick and the roster spot. Maybe rent/stash him in Europe or in the D-League for a year or something if you want all 12-13 roster spots But I doubt the Celtics will find 12-13 instant contributors. I don't see your point here.Posted by Artist-Frmrly-Knwn-As-NickC1188

My point is that he will have nobody around to help him and in terms of being undrafted.......... think about all the guys with his potential that have actually been drafted and are asking whether the customer wants fries with the burger........ is the guy more or less raw than Hasheem Thabeet?

In Response to Re: 5 Best Draft Picks to replace Shaq : My point is that he will have nobody around to help him and in terms of being undrafted.......... think about all the guys with his potential that have actually been drafted and are asking whether the customer wants fries with the burger........ is the guy more or less raw than Hasheem Thabeet?Posted by TheDUDDER

In all honesty, about the same, but with NBA size (Thabeet was a stick figure)

But he wouldn't have the pressure of being a top pick

I think he's the best 12th or 13th man option. Plus he'd still get to learn from the veterans, namely Garnett (team defense).

Trade Rondo and Green for Nash and Jared Dudley. We are already old and need to rebuild so we get Nash for one year and then the only contracts on the books for 12-13 are Pierce and Dudley. We can go after Howard and/or Paul and Williams in free agency. Even if we land one out of three that is a good starting point to rebuild. I am sure there are many scenarios out there like this but I see Nash giving us the same thing Rondo does but better outside shooting and free throw shooting. Unless Rondo dramatically improves his free throws and jumper he needs to go.